Seepersaud Chatterdeo, a well-known Guyanese paediatrician who died on Sunday at the Balwant Singh Hospital at the age of 47, tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
A statement issued by his family yesterday said: “We recently learnt that a postmortem swab was positive for COVID-19.”
The statement added: “The relevant authorities have embarked on contact tracing but in the circumstances we are urging that all who may have been in contact with him over the past two (2) weeks be vigilant and observe the recommended guideline directed behavior such as social distancing, hand washing and wearing of masks.”
It further advised persons who came into contact with Chatterdeo to look out for symptoms or signs of COVID-19 infection. “These would include fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell and taste, excessive tiredness, sore throat, diarrhea, body aches and pains.”
It urged those who are concerned or have any of the above symptoms to seek medical attention.
Meanwhile, Indra Chatterdeo, wife of the deceased, during an interview with Stabroek News described him as an extremely nice person to all.
She disclosed that he was unwell a few days prior to his passing.
While it was said that he suffered from underlying health conditions, this newspaper was not made aware of any.
The 47-year-old father of two started his practice as a paediatrician in January of 2001, and continued to practice until his death. He was previously employed at the Balwant Singh’s Hospital as its paediatrician.
The statement also expressed the family’s gratitude for the appreciation and love directed towards the late Chatterdeo and for the outpouring of support extended to his family during a difficult time.
Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony had expressed condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and patients of Chatterdeo.
A release from Dr Anthony stated that Chatterdeo was one of Guyana’s prominent paediatricians and once headed the Paediatrics Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital.
“Outside of being one of Guyana’s most respected paediatricians, he was a dear teacher to several medical students and medical interns…”
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, in a Facebook post, also expressed his sincere condolences, followed by Attorney Sase Gunraj, who also posted a tribute on Facebook, offering his heartfelt condolences.
